Have you always wanted to start strength training but aren’t sure where to begin? Check out these seven rules to learn the basics.
1. Warm Up First
You might be excited about your new strength training goals, but before you head over to the weight room, do some light cardio first. Why? Warmer muscles are more flexible and simply work better. Thus, not only do you reduce your chance for injury by warming up, you also allow yourself to lift more and get more out of your workout!
2. Work with a Pro
Another way to prevent injury: let a professional show you how it’s done. Whether you use a machine or free weights, having a personal trainer on hand at first to correct your form and technique is crucial. Improper lifting technique can lead to strains and joint injuries that will keep you out of the gym.
3. Go Heavy or Go Home
This doesn’t mean lifting weights that are too heavy for you. What it does mean is that if you’re a woman who has been told to stick to lots of reps with light weights, you should forget that lesson and relearn this one: you will not become Arnold Schwarzenegger by lifting heavy weights. You’ll just get stronger, slim down, and tone up your limbs and core!
4. Target the Whole Body
You may have weight lifting friends who refer to “leg days” or “upper body days.” But unless you’re a bodybuilder looking to bulk up one specific muscle set, there’s no reason to split your workout into specific days for specific parts.
A full body workout, on the other hand, will help you reach your fitness goals faster.